Sago Palms Contain Neuro-Toxins

Hello Gardeners, I’m Amanda McNulty with Clemson Extension and Making It Grow. Cycads have been used for food in many cultures around the world. A cycad native to Florida, Zamia floridana, or coontie, was almost eliminated by the production of cycad flour; mills churned out 15 tons of arrowroot flour a day. Since cycads contain extremely dangerous neuro-toxins that cause horrific symptoms in humans decades after consumption, the plant material must be processed with great care to render it safe.

Sadly, puppies, or even adult dogs, who are confined to a yard and likely to chew everything in sight, have been poisoned immediately after eating any cycads species. If you notice that your sago has been chewed, you should immediately take your animal to a veterinarian as prompt treatment means the difference between life and death. It’s probably wise to remove sago palms from the part of your yard where your pet is confined.

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